Welcome to your new go-to dinner: succulent grilled chicken thighs! I set out to discover the ultimate grilling technique for thighs, and this is what I’ve found. The magic happens with my signature quick marinade, which strikes a remarkable blend of tangy, savory, and smoky tastes.
You can prepare either grilled boneless chicken thighs or bone-in with this recipe, or a combination of both. I recently thought of pairing it with creamy tzatziki sauce and pickled red onions, and it turned into an absolutely wonderful, uncomplicated dinner. Here are all my suggestions and techniques for the most delicious grilled chicken thighs ever!
Boneless vs Bone-In Grilled Chicken Thighs
To prepare grilled chicken thighs, you’ll require 8 large or 12 small for 4 servings. Many chefs and professionals agree that chicken thighs are the finest cut of chicken, so you’re in for a delight! They have more fat compared to chicken breasts, leading to a richer, more intense flavor than the white meat. This recipe is suitable for both grilled boneless chicken thighs and bone-in, skin-on thighs:
Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide the juiciest results. Cooking chicken with the bone intact allows the flavors from the bone to permeate the meat, giving you a richer, heartier taste. The skin also crisps up beautifully and is well-seasoned.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are tasty and easier to handle. They grill wonderfully and require a bit less time on the grill. (Recently, I’ve been making boneless chicken thighs most often, so that’s usually what I do!)
My Game-Changing Marinade
The marinade for my chicken thighs is what distinguishes these thighs from any others you’ve tasted. Instead of a conventional liquid marinade that tends to slide off the chicken, I developed a thicker, paste-like concoction that adheres well. Here’s what makes it stand out:
Dijon mustard serves as both a flavor enhancer and tenderizer, aiding in the adherence of seasonings to the chicken.
Worcestershire sauce introduces a vital umami flavor that leaves people wondering “what IS that fantastic taste?”
Fresh lemon juice brightens everything and aids in breaking down proteins for optimal tenderness.
Spices: A blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme adds layers of flavor. I’ve discovered that this combination pairs well whether you serve the chicken with Mediterranean dishes like my Greek salad or opt for a more American barbecue theme with coleslaw and potato salad.
Pro Tip
When applying the marinade to skin-on thighs, use your fingers to maneuver some of the mixture beneath the skin. This guarantees that the flavors infuse the meat directly, ensuring incredibly well-seasoned chicken throughout.
How Long to Grill Chicken Thighs
The grilling duration for chicken thighs varies based on their size and whether they’re bone-in or boneless. Over medium-high heat, small chicken thighs require 9 to 11 minutes to grill, while large ones need 10 to 13 minutes, with boneless pieces being on the shorter side of each timeframe. Here’s how to grill chicken thighs:
Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 450°F).
Grill the thighs smooth side down until grill marks appear and they lift easily from the grates, approximately 5 to 6 minutes for small thighs and 6 to 8 for large thighs. Flip and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, around 4 to 5 minutes more.
Transfer to a platter and cover with foil. Allow to rest for 5 minutes for optimal juiciness.
A Note on Organic Chicken
For this recipe, you’ll need 8 large or 12 small chicken thighs to generously serve 4 people. I always prefer to buy organic chicken when possible—not only does it offer a better flavor, but according to USDA standards, organic chicken is raised in more natural conditions and is fed 100% organic feed without antibiotics or hormones.
Ways To Serve Grilled Chicken Thighs
It’s fair to say I am enamored with grilled chicken thighs: they might rank in my top 3 meals when paired with tzatziki sauce. Of course, there are numerous ways to transform them into a meal. Here are my preferred serving ideas:
For sauces, I love pairing these with buffalo ranch or my homemade honey mustard. My cilantro lime dressing also complements the smoky profiles beautifully.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
I frequently grill a double batch since these reheat wonderfully! Here are a few pointers for storage and reheating:
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Place in freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Reheat the thighs in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
Meal prep: Slice grilled thighs for salads, wraps, or grain bowls throughout the week.
Dietary Notes
This recipe for grilled chicken thighs is gluten-free and dairy-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent grilled chicken thighs from becoming dry? Brining or mar